They say here in the Netherlands that the IJ-Hallen is the biggest flea market in Europe. I’m not sure really. I have been to many larger-than-life markets in other countries. Such as the huge and bustling El Rastro flea market in Madrid which I have visited more than a decade ago. My friend G kept telling me to mind my bag because of the pickpockets.
Nonetheless, I was here at the IJ-Hallen last year together with Bru. We had our usual catch up and we did this over drinks at the Smederij Restaurant of Brooklyn Hilton Hotel, which by the way has a very cosy lounge, bar and restaurant. It was really timing that there was a flea market at the IJ-Hallen on that day, so Bru and I decided to rummage the area. Unfortunately, we did not find anything persuading us enough to part with our cash. I found though some really cool industrial hanging lamps which were probably used in a factory in the past. It is just too bad because they would not fit well in my home.
Maybe I will come back here this year and see if I can find a different kind of lamp, perhaps an antique chandelier.
The IJ-Hallen is open only in spring and summer and on certain elected dates. Announced dates so far are 9 & 10 April 2016 and 7 & 8 May 2016. Do visit the website to keep up-to-date of the flea market schedules: IJ-Hallen Flea Markets
If you are going to Amsterdam on these dates, and you love junk stuff, er I mean antiques and second hand wares, then this is a great place to lose yourself into. This is actually what I call a designers dream haven to scour really interesting items for interior projects.
If you are public transportation dependent, you can easily get here with the ferry located at the back of Amsterdam Centraal Station.
And oh, you pronounced IJ-Hallen as EYE-HAAL-LEN
Travel Period: May 2015
Destination: Amsterdam North (Amsterdam – North Holland), the Netherlands
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